More In Your Life

Thank you very much

Posted: Feb. 9, 2014 10:51 am Updated: Feb. 14, 2014 7:37 pm

Editor:

I'm writing to thank Newton area residents for their generosity in helping thousands of suffering children worldwide this Christmas. Through their efforts, we were able to collect more than 1,268 shoeboxes -- filled with toys, school supplies and hygiene items -- for Operation Christmas Child, the world's largest Christmas project of its kind. These simple gift-filled shoeboxes communicate to needy children that they are loved and not forgotten.

Although drop-off locations around Newton are closed until November 2014, shoebox gifts can be packed any time. Gifts are received year-round at Samaritan's Purse (801 Bamboo Road, Boone, N.C. 28607) or using the project's online tool, where donors can virtually build a box. To get involved, visit samaritanspurse.org or call 410-772-7360.

Thanks again to everyone who participated in this project. A simple gift, packed with love, can communicate hope and transform the lives of children worldwide.

Leigh Fisher, Ellicott City, Md.

Mid-Atlantic Regional Director, Operation Christmas Child

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Editor:

The semi-annual blood drive, held by the Marine Corps League of Sussex County, was a great success. Many, many thanks to all who turned out to donate in spite of the cold, snowy day on January 18. Also thanks to Marine Joe Pizzi who has chaired this event for the last eight years. Twenty-six pints were collected, far exceeding the goal.

This was the 21st year that Detachment 747 has been hosting this drive. It began when a member, Marine Franklin Sigler, a recipient of the Medal of Honor at the battle of Iwo Jima in World War II, fell ill and was in need of blood. It was then that the detachment held the first blood drive to meet his needs.

Marine Sigler has since passed away but the blood drive continues in his memory twice each year.

Thank you again to all who participated.

The next Marine Franklin Sigler Blood Drive will be held on July 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Newton VFW.

Tony Piano, Hamburg

Past Detachment Commandant

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Editor:

I wish to express my thanks to the folks at the Harmony Hill Methodist Church in Stillwater for providing me with transportation and compassion during my transition with eyesight difficulties.

Though they request to be nameless the folks at that church have done an outstanding and commendable service to the community by sharing automobile expenses and their compassion.

Living Water Fellowship Church in Newton has done their share as well.

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In 1881, five short line regional railroads combined with the New Jersey Midland Railroad to form the New York, Susquehanna & Western Railway. This new line played an important role in hauling coal out of Pennsylvania to the greater New York metropolitan